Benvenuto Cellini, English National Opera

Terry Gilliam directs Berlioz's Benvenuto Cellini at the English National Opera

Berlioz’s first opera, Benvenuto Cellini, burst onto the stage in 1838 Paris. Nowadays, the work is seldom performed, so don’t miss the chance to see director Terry Gilliam’s flamboyant production at English National Opera, already receiving rave reviews. Edward Gardner conducts a score brimming with vivacity and humour, and full of orchestral colour. With a plot including mistaken identity, romance, intrigue and farce, ENO’s take on this arresting opera will immerse you in a carnival atmosphere.

Set in 16th-century Rome, the opera is based on the autobiography of Benvenuto Cellini, focusing on his brushes with the law. To avoid punishment for his trespasses, Cellini promises to cast a bronze statue of Perseus for the Pope. With the clock ticking for his commission, Cellini has to defend his honour and win the hand of his lover, Teresa. Taking a tongue-in-cheek look at the role of the artist, this fusion of the comic and the serious will certainly entertain. 

Praised for his sensational, magnetic performances and renowned for his affinity for French repertoire, tenor Michael Spyres sings the title role. Already a favourite at ENO after her performance in 2013’s La Traviata, Corinne Winters turns her rich and vibrant soprano voice to the role of Teresa, Cellini’s love interest. The rest of the cast are equally superb, including the charismatic Willard White as Pope Clement VII. With a fantastic cast, extravagant visuals and a rare opportunity to hear some of Berlioz’s early dramatic music, Benvenuto Cellini is not one to be missed.